Key points:
- The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to 13 illegal offshore gambling websites operating without state licenses
- The MGCB is focusing on Michigan residents with attention on financial risks and unregulated gambling practices
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken action against 13 illegal offshore gambling websites that involved Michigan residents without proper state licences. The websites, including Captain Jack Casino, Casino Brango and Ducky Luck Casino, were operating in violation of Michigan’s gambling regulations.
The operators of these sites were based in jurisdictions such as Curaçao, Costa Rica and the Autonomous Island of Anjouan. These websites allowed Michigan players to gamble with various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal and cryptocurrencies. The MGCB found that these sites were engaging in malpractice, such as withholding winnings and applying high wagering requirements, which made players vulnerable to financial harm.
In addition to financial risks, these offshore operators did not adhere to Michigan’s standards for responsible gaming, consumer protection or data security, putting users at risk of fraud and identity theft. The MGCB has issued cease-and-desist orders to the operators, giving them 14 days to comply. If they fail to do so, the MGCB will pursue legal action in cooperation with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Good to know: The MGCB advises Michigan residents to engage only with gambling sites licensed by the state, a list of which is available on the MGCB website
Henry Williams, Michigan Gaming Control Board’s Executive Director, stated: “These illegal gambling websites put Michigan residents at significant personal and financial risk.
“Our priority is to maintain a secure and regulated gaming environment. These websites not only violate Michigan’s laws but also engage in deceptive practices that endanger consumers, including withholding winnings and imposing unfair wagering requirements.”
This comes after MGCB ordered 10 offshore gambling operators to cease activities in March and recent measures clamping down on casino-style gaming machines across the state.
